In a historic first, two mineral blocks in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir (UT) have been successfully auctioned through the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, under the Central Government’s mineral auction process. The successful auction marks an important step towards unlocking the mineral potential of Jammu & Kashmir and initiating a new phase of organised mineral development in the Union Territory.

The development comes as Jammu & Kashmir continues to witness greater focus on infrastructure, investment and economic development following the abrogation of Article 370. The auction of these mineral blocks adds a new dimension to this development journey by enabling systematic exploration and development of the Union Territory’s mineral resources.

The Government of Jammu & Kashmir (UT) had entrusted the auction of mineral blocks to the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. The successful completion of the auction reflects the use of a transparent and competitive mineral auction process for the systematic development of mineral resources.

Details of the Blocks

Koot–Kapran Limestone Block, Anantnag

Located in Koot and Kapran villages of Dooru Tehsil in Anantnag district, the Koot–Kapran Limestone Block covers 22.43 hectares and has estimated limestone resources of 4.75 million tonnes. The block has been explored up to the G-4 stage, providing scope for further detailed exploration and development.

Wantrag Limestone Block, Anantnag

The Wantrag Limestone Block covers 5.36 hectares and has estimated limestone resources of 10.853 million tonnes. The block has been explored up to the G-3 stage, including 159 metres of drilling, providing an important geological basis for further exploration and development.

The auction of the two limestone blocks is expected to catalyse new investment and economic activity in the Union Territory. As mining and associated activities develop, they are expected to generate a large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities and create avenues for local businesses, entrepreneurs, service providers and allied industries.

The development of the mineral sector will also contribute to greater value creation from Jammu & Kashmir’s mineral resources and support new opportunities for local participation in the emerging mining ecosystem. This marks another step towards strengthening the economic foundations of a Viksit Jammu & Kashmir.

The Ministry of Mines will continue to work in coordination with the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to facilitate transparent, sustainable and responsible development of the Union Territory’s mineral resources.

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Prajith Kumar MV

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